Join the adventures of Debbie and Paul Rippon. Just a few years ago they were townies working in an office looking after a cat from the RSPCA. Now they breed and sell their prize winning herd of over140 friendly champion alpacas (including 3 Supreme Champions and 26 Champions) at the eco-friendly farm they have built in rural Northumberland...the electric Aga powered by the solar panels means the whistling kettle is always on...visitors are always very welcome!

Monday, 1 August 2011

Today has seen the arrival of the last Barnacre cria of the year, a day early yet still a day too late.

As you will recall my parents have been here for a few days as mum was animal sitting whilst we were up at Kelso. Mum loves to see the babies being born and was hopeful that Geena would oblige, but she had to go home yesterday afternoon.

I did think first thing that Geena thinking about birthing, she wasn't actually due until tomorrow but clearly didn't want to wait any longer. My mum was not very pleased - sorry mum!

It is the first time I've actually seen Geena give birth, it was a good job really as she needed a little help to release this baby.

It is a lovely dark fawn boy who weighed a healthy 7.48kg, which is quite small for us this year. I think he must have been laid in an awkward position as he has a bit of a stiff neck.

He was a little slow to get going but having had a little top up bottle of colostrum which went down very well. Geena can't produce enough milk so her cria always need a little topping up.

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About Me

I am Debbie, one half of the husband and wife partnership called Barnacre Alpacas. We know every one of our 145 alpacas on farm by their name and personality traits. Our herd contains some of the best quality genetics in the world and I would love you to share (and comment?!) in our journey of discovery.